Briefly describe a specific question, or set of related questions, about a health care test or treatment that this program should consider.

IBS, Crohn's and ulcerative colitis. Since I have been diagnosed I have noticed first how many people are afflicted and second the ramifications of living with this condition. There is no paper in your collection. There are a lot of types of these conditions making it difficult to make healing decisions. Much needed. I have been doing a lot of reading and research and feel the need for one comprehensive place for information. This area is desperate for comprehensive coverage because of the dramatic lifestyle changes necessary to cope with these illnesses.

Does your question include a comparison of different health care approaches? (If no, your topic will still be considered.)

If yes, explain the specific technologies, devices, drugs, or interventions you would like to see compared:

What patients or group(s) of patients does your question apply to? (Please include specific details such as age range, gender, coexisting diagnoses, and indications for therapy.)

More definition about groups effected needed.

Are there subgroups of patients that your question might apply to? (For example, an ethnic group, stage or severity of a disease.)

Describe the health-related benefits you are interested in. (For example, improvements in patient symptoms or problems from treatment or diagnosis.)

Describe any health-related risks, side effects, or harms that you are concerned about.

Appropriateness for EHC Program

Does your question include a health care drug, intervention, device, or technology available (or likely to be available) in the U.S.?

yes

Which priority area(s) and population(s) does this topic apply to? (check all that apply)

EHC Priority Conditions (updated in 2008)

AHRQ Priority Populations

Federal Health Care Program

• Other

Importance

Describe why this topic is important.

What specifically motivated you to ask this question? (For example, you are developing a clinical guideline, working with a policy with large uncertainty about the appropriate approach, costly intervention, new research you have read, items in the media you may have seen, a clinical practice dilemma you know of, etc.)

Does your question represent uncertainty for clinicians and/or policy-makers? (For example, variations in clinical care, controversy in what constitutes appropriate clinical care, or a policy decision.)

yes

If yes, please explain:

Potential Impact

How will an answer to your research question be used or help inform decisions for you or your group?

Describe the timeframe in which an answer to your question is needed.

Describe any health disparities, inequities, or impact on vulnerable populations your question applies to.

Nominator Information

Other Information About You: (optional)

Please choose a description that best describes your role or perspective: (you may select more than one category if appropriate)

Are you making a suggestion as an individual or on behalf of an organization?

Individual

Please tell us how you heard about the Effective Health Care Program

Internet, email